High rise living in Adelaide’s CBD is on the increase with people of all ages and demographics choosing a vibrant city lifestyle. However, it’s not just people on the move. Their furry friends are coming too.

The pet culture is starting to spread across the city with dog friendly venues including cafes, restaurants with courtyards, wine bars, markets and taverns popping up everywhere in the CBD. The City of Adelaide recently opened its new off-leash dog park for canines of all sizes. The $5 million park upgrade is in Adelaide’s favourite playground – Marshmallow Park in Adelaide Parklands.

Residential apartment builders across the city are also now starting to adapt to meet this growing city living with pets trend.

First home buyer Alison Barr (38) and her partner Allison Down (46) from Eastwood were looking at several new apartment projects to embrace a lively city lifestyle as well as cater for their Australian bulldog Ruby (9 years of age). Ms Barr comments, “Ruby’s needs were just as important as ours when choosing a new home. Its proximity to green open spaces, Adelaide’s café and restaurant scene, Adelaide University where my partner Allison studies, spacious floorplans and a modern light and bright colour scheme were all must haves.

Growing support for pet keeping in strata communities reflects the cultural importance of pet ownership in Australia. The latest Pet Ownership Australia report by Animal Health Alliance (Australia) highlights more than 60 per cent of Australian households include at least one companion animal. Dogs and cats are the most popular.

Cameron Porter, National Sales Manager for Greaton, developer of the $300 West Franklin project in West End comments, “For many people pets are an extension of the family and their wellbeing is just as important as the home owner. They can also have a positive impact on people’s mental health too.

“Research also suggests that interacting with pets can help create happier and friendlier neighbourhoods. West Franklin is ideally located for pet owners. There are several parks within a short walk including Light Square, West and South Terrace Parklands, Whitmore Square and River Torrens. Several dog friendly café and restaurant venues are also close by.”

One of Adelaide’s biggest dog friendly events – Houndwave, organised by The Adelaide West End Association, and supported by Splash Adelaide and Adelaide Mini Garage will be held on 7 April in Light Square, Adelaide. Over 1000 furry friends and 2000 people are expected to attend the event. West Franklin is one of several supporters. For further information visit houndwave.com.au #houndwave @houndwave

The first stage of West Franklin is located on the corner of Elizabeth and Franklin Streets and features 271 residential apartments spread across two towers (north tower is 20 storeys and the south tower is 18 storeys). They both share a common podium comprising 1,245 sqm of retail and commercial on the ground level, resident facilities and car parking.

Residential facilities in the podium area, adjoining the two towers on level seven include a 20 metre glass edged pool, gym, sauna and steam room with spectacular views to the beach, CBD and parklands. This area will also feature a landscaped Sky Park BBQ area with covered pergola, seated areas, indoor lounge, kitchen and dining spaces, golf driving simulator, exclusive cinema and shared library/office. The north tower’s level 20 boasts a stunning roof top terrace, indoor/outdoor seating and fireplace for residents.

Construction is now well underway and the builders are expected to reach the top level by June. Stage one is due to be completed early 2019. For further information visit www.westfranklin.com.au or call 1300 992 166.

Greaton entered the Australian market in 2011. The company is a leading diversified property business covering residential apartments, retail, serviced apartments and commercial activities across Sydney and Adelaide. It is currently developing in excess of $1.3 billion in projects. Greaton’s consistent goal is to craft extraordinary places that bring people together. We don’t just create buildings. We create environments that facilitate meaningful connections.